Delta, Gol Expected To Apply For Antitrust Immunity

Delta Air Lines expects the United States and Brazil to reach an aviation deal that removes restrictions on flights between the countries in the next year.

An Open Skies deal would allow Delta and Brazil's Gol to apply for immunity from antitrust law and coordinate the prices and timing of their flights.

"We anticipate to file for antitrust immunity shortly" after a deal is reached, Delta's Ed Bastian said.

Delta expanded its alliance with Gol under a USD$446 million stock and loan agreement in July. Delta owns just under 10 percent of Gol, Bastian said.